What To Wear: New Trends in Slacks You Too can Flaunt

Posted on April 27, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

We’ve been blogging a lot about tops and dresses for spring so we wanted to focus this post on stylish pants for the season. Black slacks are one of Elan’s key “wardrobe backbone” items and we’re sure most of you own at least one great pair if you’ve been following our posts for a while. But we don’t want you to stop there! Luckily this spring pants are getting a little more attention as bold hues and even prints are showing up in style.

We’ve already blogged about the Colored Denim Trend which is really the dominant pant trend this year.With our tips here you’ll find more ways to rock the latest trends with ease.

For Spring in the office an ankle length pant is a must. It can be worn with your favorite pumps just as easily as with your flats. This style is also an easy place to insert color. Look for styles with a slim cut but not too fitted for a sleek look appropriate for a work day. You all know how much Natalie dislikes calf length capris, (you can listen to her interview on Amy Tobin radio on this very point!) so she is simply in love with this new cropped, but infinitely more figure flattering silhouette.

On the opposite side of more fitted ankle length trousers are wide leg pants. But wide this season really means more full-legged versus palazzo so more women can feel comfortable flaunting this look. For summer this trend feels light and fresh in all white. Just check to make sure the pant is not see through. This is one style you’ll probably prefer to wear lined during the summer. This Balmain style is also quite nice in a pastel shade that’s simultaneously trending this season.

Here is The Image Diva, herself, Flaunting her favorite ivory wide-legged slacks, which she uses to make the red of her sassy jacket pop even more. Light colored slacks this time of year makes all your tops/jackets the front-runners ans gives your overall look a fresh and lively one.

Printed Pants Work to Play by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring flat shoes

Printed pants may seem daunting, but as you can see they can go from the office to a weekend shopping so easily. The best tip is to accessorize with neutrals. They help ground the patterned design and pull your whole look together. We added a white blazer to make the look is more professional. On the weekend an easy fashion tee makes getting ready a breeze. When pairing up tops pick one of the lightest or darkest shades instead of the pop color in the pants for a sophisticated look.

The print pant is not for everyone, but if you want to make a statement, this is definitely a fun way to do it. We like how Jessica Biel rocks a monochromatic print pant in a casual ensemble. This is an easy look to replicate and it may make the idea of wearing a print pant less anxiety provoking. Prints can be ‘loud’ or understated. Choose your look based on your style persona.

Now you have three new pant styles to try for Spring! So go wake up your wardrobe with a pop of color, a new slim ankle length or print in your trousers.

For more tips to help you find stylish and well fitting trousers check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. Be sure to read Chapter 6 on your Wardrobe’s Backbone.It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

Stylist Tips to Make a Colorful Handbag Work for You

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Have you employed a little spring cleaning to your handbag? It’s probably time to ditch the spare gloves in favor of a compact umbrella. While you’re at it, why not ditch the boring black bag too? Opt for a pop of color in the form of a colorful handbag. We’ve got three looks to show you how easy it is to incorporate a bold bag into your work day ensembles.

Add Color! by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring leather tote bags

Neutral outfits are an easy place to start. Any one of these bags could be worn with any one of these outfits. Which means they could probably also be worn with just about anything in your closet.

Mix and Match Green Messenger BAg by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring kate spade handbags

Professional outfits, like suits, can make playing with fashion daunting. We’re here to show you a bold messenger bag can work with your business attire. Follow the inspiration and mix and match your suit right along with your bag for a bold look. A boxy messenger is a great way to tote your laptop, ipad, or paperwork to and from the office.

Coral Bag Office to Casual by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring pointy toe flats

A pretty coral bag can easily go from the work day to the weekend without skipping a beat. What’s more, it can be paired with bright colors or in a more coordinated way. Let’s break this down. For the office, we picked a bright yellow striped cardigan and paired it with a full skirt and neutral heels. Yellow and Coral are both warm shades that pair nicely together. So don’t be afraid to wear bold with bold. Then on the weekend we did something we seldom showcase, matchy-matchy. It works here because it doesn’t feel overdone. Flats are casual as are the jeans. We picked a short sleeve woven blouse instead of a t-shirt and finished the look with a matching statement necklace.

See, a bright colorful handbag isn’t as impractical as you imagined. In fact, it’s a pretty fierce alternative that kicks up your look for spring/summer. Treat a handbag like any accessory and don’t be afraid to play with color.

For more fashionable tips to help you flaunt it, check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

How to Wear the A-Line Skirt 50′s Style

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

This Spring we are seeing a resurgence of 50′s inspired ensembles. This is especially true in skirts. Those of you who have been following Flaunting It With The Image Diva (or read Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It) know how much we love a skirt so this season we’re THRILLED by all the options. Full, pleated, and even peplum styles play into this trend. Picking one up in a fun floral print really drives this feminine trend home! Let’s take a look at a few skirts that have that 50′s feel yet are still modern enough to wear in the office.

We absolutely adore this floral gradient printed skirt from Elie Tahari. (Did we say ADORE!) The A-line silhouette is flattering while small pleats give it that fuller 50′s vibe. Pair it with your favorite neutral or red hip-length blazer for an easy office ready look. This silhouette is fab for women with full thighs, a slight tummy or wider hips

For a bolder look in a more casual office, check out this Jacy Printed Skirt from Nanette Lepore. The 50′s were all about color, in fact black was really only worn in the evenings. So to truly grab this trend, go bold and add some color! Remember a blazer will tone it down for the workplace. White would be a great choice to ground this look.

We may not all have the hips for a peplum skirt, but for those women with more slender builds who want to add more curves, this skirt is a must try! Marc by Marc Jacobs skirt is in a comfortable Nylon and Cotton Spandex with great vintage flair. Pair it with a slim cut blouse you can tuck in. A peplum skirt can be a great way to camouflage a tummy on a woman with narrow hips.

For true vintage style we visited one of our favorite sites, Modcloth.com; where we found this adorable midi with a full pleated skirt. Pair it with an ivory or black cardigan to complete your 50′s inspired look. A skinny belt would look fantastic too. With midi skirts higher heels are a must to ensure you keep your leg line elongated.

So how are you going to create modern 50′s style for the workplace?
- Full and pleated skirts paired with blazers.
- Peplum skirts or jackets depending on what suits your body.
- Floral and kitchy prints.
- A dose of color.

Tell us!

If you’re not on board with the trend as much but like the look of a simple A Line, you must check out this classic Tallulah number from Banana Republic. The gentle A-Line and solid navy hue here flatters almost every figure. If you have a flat tummy go ahead and wear it with a top tucked in. Otherwise, you’ll want to pair it with a top un-tucked that hits right below the waist band.

For more tips check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

Business Casual Style Using Colored Denim

Posted on March 28, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

It’s hard to miss this trend- colored denim is showing up everywhere! Have you bought a pair yet? Since we did recommend it as a Must Try Spring Trend, it’s only fair we show you how to work this versatile pant into your work wardrobe.

All the celebs are flaunting colored denim this season and some with more polish than others. If you’re going for this more casual bottom in the office make sure it fits nicely, not too tight. Also topping it off with a blazer will instantly up the professional ante. We’ll use these celebs for color inspiration and recreate our own looks you can take to work.

Green Jeans for Spring by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring bdg jeans

For business casual or casual Friday in the office try a look like this. We paired green denim with a print blouse and easy black blazer. Together these pieces are polished with a touch of rock and roll attitude. A pair of neutral heels is the perfect go-to accessory when you’re not sure what to wear on your feet.

Colored Denim for Work by fortheloveofblueshoes featuring ballet shoes

A cardigan can also help create the polished look you’re going for. As you can see, any color of denim will work. So pick your favorite shade and have a little fun. We paired these looks with patterned ballet flats and matching bags. Finding something with pattern or color-blocking takes the look from “matchy-matchy” to sophisticated with high-end flair.

We hope this inspires you to break away from simple black pants this Spring. If you’re not comfortable wearing denim in the office try looking for similar styles and colors in chinos or trousers. When trying to create outfits with your new colored denim start with neutrals and build on your selections as your confidence grows.

For more tips check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

Stylish Spring Shoes to help you Flaunt It in Comfort!

Posted on March 9, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Even in the office you have license to have a little fun with your shoes. A business suit goes from drab to fab with the right stiletto. And those pencil skirts are just begging for a fabulous shoe. After kicking around in your boots all winter it’s time to do a little shoe shopping! Luckily you have us to fill you in on the latest trends.

If your day keeps you on the go, select a shoe that can keep up with you. This L.K. Bennett kitten heel pump is sophisticated and sweet. Wear this style with light colored suits or trousers, like tan, ivory, or grey. In a more professional office they are just the perfect dose of feminine charm. Pastels are very on trend this season and it’s a head to toe movement. Wearing yours in a pretty shoe makes embracing the trend easy.

Equally hot this season and on the other end of the spectrum from pastels, are accessories in bright and sporty shades. Here’s another kitten heel to help you Wow in a full blast of color. Kate Spade New York Simon Pump is stunning in python embossed leather.

When you want more height but don’t want to sacrifice comfort, try a wedge. They give you more stability than a stiletto and with styles like this Oscar de la Renta Peep Toe Wedge they are anything but clunky. Detailed wedges are on trend this season, as is combining neutral shades with cork. Treat these like a neutral and style then with all your favorite outfits. That pencil skirt we mentioned would sure look great with these!

Thankfully flats are still going strong. This season they are taking on the color-block trend and really making a statement. Perfect for jetting in and out of the office, wear a new pair on your commute this week and toss those flip flops. AK Anne Klein’s striped Bauble flats are a chic alternative. Plus they’ll look great with your jeans over the weekend.

Now that Cole Haan has Nike Air technology, you’re practically guaranteed comfort in one of those designs. So for a sexy sandal for a night of dancing, look no further than the Air Vivian Sandal. Two-tone and strappy it’s hitting all the right notes in our book. Wear it with your favorite flirty dress and have some fun. You deserve it!

Just for fun, check out this St. Malo caged bootie from Sofft. This may not be your first stop for fashion, but they’re worth a second look. We’re always presently surprised to find a few gems right on-trend even in the comfort shoe brands. These would look amazing with ankle length pants this summer.

Comfort and style can go hand in hand when you’re shoe shopping. When selecting your spring shoes look for new trends including pastels, color-blocking, interesting neutrals, and of course, comfort. With this combination you’re sure to Flaunt It!

For more ways to Flaunt It, check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

Polish your Look by Adding Accents of Jewelry

Posted on March 6, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

When working to revamp you wardrobe, jewelry tends to be the last piece of the puzzle. It’s the finishing touch to take your outfits to the next level. It can also be used to update your closet. A statement necklace quickly revamps and adds elan to your favorite blouse, jacket or dress. .A bold necklace also does wonders for the neckline and creates an instant “eyes up” that lures people back to your command center–you face!

Bahari Necklace from Stella & Dot is so versatile! The semi-precious stones set against gold can easily be dressed up or down for work and play. The blue and white color combo is classic and fresh so it coordinates with multiple pieces. At $98 this is a fun and eye-catching necklace to have on hand. As long as we’re peeking around Stella & Dot, why not splurge on something playful for the new season. The Marchesa Necklace has a romantic whimsy that will leave you dreaming of beach getaways every time you wear it. A great piece to wear with white come spring/summer.

As we start shortening our sleeves for Spring, remember to add a bracelet. Remember there are all types of bracelets: charm, tennis, bangles, cuffs, etc. so choose the style that works for you. Cuffs made a big impact at the Oscars and can be a bold wrist accessory to add to your Spring and Summer wardrobe. Pick a statement piece to wear all season or keep things fresh with a new cuff bracelet for every look. Jennifer Fisher Brass Grate Cuff makes a statement on your wrist and your wallet at $520. The design is modern and chic without being over the top. Still bold in its design and available in two colors, J.Crew squared enamel-link bracelet rings in at a more moderate $60. If you have an Eclectic style persona, mix and match styles and colors to create a look truly your own.

We’ll finish up with earrings. If you’re in a professional office stick with flattering studs, small drop earrings or sophisticated hoops. After work, make your happy hour look come alive with more daring earrings. We love cheap and chic styles for a night on the town! Sabine Chandelier Earrings are just $20 on Piperlime. While these Jagged Hoops are only $22.

Don’t think about jewelry at the last minute. Pieces like these pull your look and style “vibe” together but you have to have access to them when you are getting dressed. Shop now for styles to revamp your closet for Spring. In the office or at play, jewelry add are accessories that add panache and style to every outfit.

For more fashionable tips be sure to check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

Having Fun with Color: Playing with Fuchsia!

Posted on February 27, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Are you a woman daunted by bold and bright colors? Are you perhaps afraid to embrace hot pink/fuchsia, for instance? Well snap out of the color doldrums, because it’s your time to shine! Hot pinks ooze with personality–you can convey sass, originality, command, allure, fun and make a statement rocking these hues. There is no reason to shy away from this color, unless of course you just don’t like it, but what’s not to like! Here are a few effortless ways to mix fuchsia into your wardrobe.

Fuschia Fun by jessica-k-rodda featuring chain earrings

You can try mixing fuchsia with shades of grey. Start by finding a figure flattering fuchsia dress like this belted number (simply gorg!) We paired it with a swing jacket with black grosgrain trim. This will help tone down the bold color. When you’re ready to embrace the shade full on, lose the jacket. We finished the look with soft grey accessories. An envelope clutch, signature earrings, and Corso Como pumps from Nordstrom give the outfit sophisticated style.

Fuschia Fun Weekend by jessica-k-rodda featuring sparkle jewelry

For more pizazz, mix fuchsia with orange. This is where the fun really begins! For a casual weekend, ground this powerful color combination with dark wash denim. Don’t worry; you don’t have to take this all on at once. Layer a pink top under a cardigan and then just wear your own favorite neutral accessories. Another option is to wear a white tee under the cardigan and try out the colored tote bag, the shoes, or both. We’re happy with any baby steps into color play.

From sophisticated to playful weekend, fuchsia is a versatile color you can look fabulous in! Next time you’re out shopping don’t skip over this color. Put down the black top and go for one in a ravishing shade of fuchsia instead!

For more fun color combo ideas check out Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style. It is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

Spring into the New Season with our Top 5 Spring Trends!

Posted on February 21, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

Are you ready for Spring yet? We sure are! We want color and sunshine to rain supreme once again. Shop now to get your wardrobe ready for when the sun comes out. We’ve got 5 top stylist tips to get you ready.

1- Colored Pants

You can pick up this trend in denim or chinos, but it’s definitely one to try. Skip the black and tan shades this spring, and opt for a fun hue to cover your legs. Gap has launched a “Be Bright” collection giving you an affordable way to try out this new trend.

2- Floral

All over the Spring runways we saw floral blooming. Many designers even created head to toe looks in vivid floral prints. We’ll be happy if you embrace floral in at least one piece this Spring. At Nordstrom we found this graphic floral print from Diane von Furstenberg.

3- Sheer Layers

Soft sheer layers bring out the romantic side of Spring. At J.Crew we found a silk pintuck blouse crafted out of crinkled chiffon. It embodies this trend perfectly.

4- Pastel Shoes with Ankle Straps

This trend can be two parts or one, as both of these things are trending. Pastel shoes are tying in with the more romantic looks while ankle straps and cuffs are coming in all shapes and sizes. We just love this pastel suede shoe by See by Chloe. The bolder blue ankle strap makes the look. Word of caution: if you have short legs, the ankle strap can make them appear shorter–so you will definitely want to rock this look with a high heel for optimal elongation!

5- Orange

Of course we’ve mentioned this before, but Orange is huge for Spring! It’s a must-try color! The shade of orange is on the red side, much more flattering. We found this ruffled shell at Loft to help you get into the color.

Try out one or all of these trends to wake up your wardrobe for Spring! Don’t forget you can always contact us to explore the best way you can incorporate these trends to suit your figure and style.

Natalie’s bestselling book, Frumpy to Fabulous: Flaunting It. Your Ultimate Guide to Effortless Style, is available in Paperback, Kindle and Abridged Ebook Format.

5 More ways to Revamp your Look for 2012

Posted on January 3, 2012 by Jennifer & Natalie

How are those New Year’s intentions progressing? Have you tried any of our suggestions to revamp your look? Today we have 5 more ways to update your image for 2012. Our previous suggestions were a little more conceptual. These are actual items you can shop and implement immediately.

6- Try a New Trend!

We’ve seen a lot of polka dots on the runways this year. Banana Republic makes this trend understandable for everyone. Wear the Bella Pintuck Dot Blouse from work to play.

7- Try a New Silhouette!

You’ve probably found silhouettes that work well for you and try to stick with them. For the New Year step out of this comfort zone and try a new silhouette. If you normally wear pencil skirts, try something full and swingy, and vice versa. Both of these skirts are from Gap and ring in under $50. That’s an affordable way to try a new silhouette.

8- Add in New Jewelry!

Do you have one necklace or pair of earrings you wear day in and day out? Shop a little costume jewelry and mix things up. It will give your outfits a fresh look for the New Year. Hive & Honey Coin Drop necklace dresses up basic tops. It’s available for just $26.99 on Piperlime.

9- Experiment with Layers!

You have your go-to blazer when you want to look professional and your favorite cardigan when you catch a chill. This year try a adding a vest into the mix. It updates your look without covering up your entire blouse. We really like this Textural Racerback Vest from Gap. It’s an easy addition to your current closet.

10- Update your neutrals!

Having a good set of neutrals in your closet is important. This applies to pants, jackets, and shoes alike. Just because they’re neutral doesn’t mean they need to be basic. Check out these neutral pumps found on Piperlime. They are sporting two trends in Spring footwear, chunky heels and metallic toes. Theo by BCBGeneration are very versatile. We also found a pair of flats with a metallic toe cap as well. Oneda by Vince Camuto are great for everyday.

All the styles we’ve shown you today are from Gap brands. This means one shopping cart and one shipping fee. Plus if you spend $50 or more shipping is always free. Happy Shopping this New Year!

5 ways to Revamp your Look for 2012

Posted on December 28, 2011 by Jennifer & Natalie

As we head into the New Year and you’re planning out your New Year’s resolutions, are you considering your image? We’re not talking about weight loss or major transitions. We have 5 quick and fun ways to revamp your look for 2012. Try 1 or give all 5 a go. A New Year is a great time to try out a new you.

1- Try a New Hairstyle!

A new color, highlights, or cut will give you a fresh perspective. Just like Emma Watson put her Hogwarts school days behind her with a swift pixie.

2- Add Color!

It’s so easy to get stuck in a rut of wearing all black. Especially for city dwellers. Give your wardrobe a kick start with some fresh hues for 2012. Even layering in a cardigan, like this tangerine example from Nordstrom, can give your wardrobe an added punch. It’s supposed to be a THE color for the coming year.

3- Add Pattern!
DVF Spring 2012 RTW
As long as you are adding color, why not play with some bold patterns. This is going beyond a tweed pant or houndstooth jacket. How about paisley, brocade, or animal print! These two graphic patterns were on the DVF runway for Spring.

4- New Makeup Routine!
Makeup trend to try in your thirties Tired of the applying the same old eyeshadow and lipstick? It’s time to switch things up. Ginnifer Goodwin tried out these teal accents for the Costume Institute Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

5- Wear Heels!

We know it can be tough when you are on your feet all day. But a great pair of heels instantly makes you feel and LOOK taller and thinner! Who doesn’t want that for the New Year? If Kelly Rippa can run in them, along with a few hundred other ladies, what’s an 8 hour day?

However you decide to usher in the New Year, these quick changes could give you the motivational boost you need to land those other resolutions. Happy New Year!

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com.

Flaunting It with The Image Diva

A Style, Image & Fashion Blog: so you can look Fabulous for all your occasions

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